DoT approves £51m Alderley Edge bypass

The Government has approved more than £48m of funding for a £51m bypass to reduce congestion through Nether Alderley and Alderley Edge, in Cheshire.

Transport Minister Rosie Winterton, who announced the plans today, said that the 5km bypass would cut traffic by almost 26,000 vehicles, as well as improving access from the villages to Manchester and Manchester Airport.

Winterton said: "We are committed to investing in local transport. This bypass will really improve the environment in Alderley Edge and Nether Alderley while cutting congestion, reducing delays and improving access for communities and businesses in southern Manchester and north east Cheshire.

"The road will also improve the reliability of local bus services as well as access to Manchester Airport and the Alderley Park Regional Employment Site, which will help facilitate expansion and job creation."

The Department for Transport will provide £48.224m with Cheshire County Council meeting the remainder of the total £51.648m cost. Work on the bypass will begin in August 2008, with the scheme opening in 2011.